DIY your Halloween this year with easy costume ideas made from items you likely already have around the house. Save money and stand out with an original look you can’t find on the shelves.

Halloween is a time when creativity takes center stage, and making your own costume is one of the best ways to show it off. Not only does a do-it-yourself approach save money, but it also ensures you’ll have something original. Or maybe you just haven’t had the time to go shopping and need to throw something together last minute. No matter the reason, with some everyday items and a touch of creativity, you’ll have a costume ready in no time.

Groovy Ghost

The ghost costume is a classic, and you can always just go with a simple white sheet with holes cut out for the eyes and call it a day. Just make sure you mark and cut carefully so that you can see well! But, if you want to have a little more fun, use a patterned or vintage sheet for a fresh, groovy take. Pair it with sneakers to complete the modern look.

Pun-Inspired Costumes

Wordplay is always a hit, and pun-inspired costumes are often simple to create. One option is going as “Green with Envy.” Simply dress head-to-toe in green, add a touch of green face paint, and wear a name tag that says “Envy.” Another fun choice is the “Spelling Bee.” Wear black and yellow stripes, add antennae, and carry a sign or sash with deliberately misspelled words.

Pop Culture Characters

TV shows, movies, and books offer plenty of DIY inspiration. For example, a simple black dress, braided pigtails, and pale makeup make an instantly recognizable Wednesday Addams. For something equally easy, try a striped scarf, a lightning bolt drawn on your forehead, and a stick for a wand to bring out your inner Harry Potter.

Everyday Objects

Everyday items can also make fun and unexpected costumes. Attach green balloons to a brown outfit to become a bunch of grapes. Create a wearable cheese board using cardboard pieces painted like crackers and cheese wedges. These ideas are simple, but effective.

Cardboard Creations

If you have cardboard on hand, the options expand dramatically. A painted box can transform into a refrigerator, a robot, or even a LEGO brick. For kids who love video games, a Minecraft-inspired character is simple to create by painting a box in the signature blocky style.

Last-Minute Options

If you’ve left your planning to the eleventh hour, there are still plenty of quick solutions. Cat ears and whiskers drawn with eyeliner remain a reliable classic. A striped shirt and beret paired with white face paint make a convincing mime. Another easy choice is a tourist: wear a bright shirt, sunglasses, a sunhat, and carry a camera or map.

It’s All About the Details

When it comes to DIY costumes, the details often make the biggest difference. Face paint and makeup can really help sell your look, even if just some eyeliner and lipstick. Accessories such as hats, props, or signs can also help make it obvious what you are going for.

Halloween costumes don’t need to be expensive or complicated. Whether you’re going for spooky, funny, or pop culture-inspired, there’s a DIY option for everyone.